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Were you raised in an ‘open’ or ‘closed’ house, and was it different from your spouse?

(102 Posts)
Daddima Sat 20-Sept-25 18:04:16

I was just looking at a film of Charlie Kirk discussing things he thought it was important to address before getting married, and one was what kind of house were you raised in. Now, my family home wasn’t a big ‘party’ house, but there were often friends of my parents and siblings there, maybe just for short visits, but often for meals and overnight stays. The Bodach’s house was completely different, with visitors being few and far between, and certainly mealtime invitations were very rare.
I’m glad to report that he came to enjoy welcoming visitors, but his mother was openly disapproving of such practices, so I was wondering if anyone had had issues with visitors.

jocork Tue 23-Sept-25 11:17:20

I come from a very open home where my parents entertained friends regularly. People often came when passing by, especially if they had been to watch football in my hometown. They might turn up on their way home and mum always had food in to make an impromptu meal. My ex's family only really entertained family, and more often met up with family for meals out.
As a couple we didn't entertain as much as my parents, but much more than his. We had a friend who often dropped in uninvited on a Saturday evening if he'd been in our town and didn't fancy an evening at home alone. He once turned up on Boxing day when my ex's parents were there too. I saw it as him feeling we were a safe place to go, but I think my In-Laws were a bit shocked!
I don't tend to have people round these days as my house is embarassing, but I hope to change that when I downsize. People are still welcome but only if they don't judge!